Automation Alley, a World Economic Forum AMHUB, is at the center of some of the most innovative Industry 4.0-focused projects, startups and technology accelerators in the country. 

In episode two of our two-part series with Automation Alley Executive Director and CEO Tom Kelly, we get into some of these initiatives that deploy cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing, blockchain, artificial intelligence and more. 

Learn how small and midsize manufacturers are leveraging additive manufacturing for unique applications, get an understanding of how blockchain technology can be leveraged in an Industry 4.0 world, and see the value of supporting startups in the advanced manufacturing technology sector.

(Did you miss our first episode with Tom Kelly? Get caught up here: techedpodcast.com/automationalley)

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Project DIAMOnD is a living case study in how 3D printing is revolutionizing manufacturing: Project DIAMOnD (Distributed Independent Additive Manufacturing on Demand) is the country's largest distributed 3D printing network, enabling small and midsize manufacturers to leverage the technological advantages of production-capable 3D printing while learning from other organizations in the 300-printer network. We talk about the role of 3D printing, its current and future applications, how it's solving supply chain issues, and the role of blockchain in a distributed network.
2. Blockchain technology is an integral component of digital manufacturing: The more digitalized manufacturing becomes, the more important it is that organizations start leveraging the power of blockchain to keep their products, processes and IP secure. Tom provides a great overview of blockchain and the importance of digital ID, digital recipes, digital rights management, and digital quality assurance.
3. The Industry 4.0 Accelerator is supporting Industry 4.0 startups developing fascinating technologies: Industry 4.0 is full of potential for innovative, disruptive technologies that can transform traditional manufacturing. That's why Automation Alley partnered with a number of organizations, including Lawrence Technological University (Centrolpolis Accelerator), Lean Rocket Lab, and a number of well-known companies, to launch the Industry 4.0 Accelerator which is supporting Industry 4.0 startups in Michigan. Hear about some of the incredible technologies these companies have invented and the role of partnerships in an accelerator model like this.

Resources

To learn about Automation Alley and get free access to Industry 4.0 knowledge visit: automationalley.com

Learn more / get involved with Project DIAMOnD: www.projectdiamond.org

Learn more about the Industry 4.0 Accelerator: www.i40accelerator.com

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